FAQ - Frequently Asked Question

Tahitian pearls are cultured pearls produced by the pearl oyster Pinctada margaritifera in French Polynesia. They are prized for their unique overtones, which range from black to green and take in pink, blue and gold.

No. Moana Tahitian Pearls is a French jewellery workshop, founded in 2014 by Alice Pinero and based in the south of France, near Cannes (Alpes-Maritimes). We do not farm pearls and we have no shop in French Polynesia: we select Tahitian and Australian pearls from specialist suppliers and turn them into handmade jewellery in our own workshop. Several businesses with names close to ours are pearl farms or tourist shops in Moorea or Papeete; they have no connection with us.

Both are saltwater cultured pearls, but they come from different oysters. The Tahitian pearl is produced by Pinctada margaritifera in French Polynesia and has naturally dark tones: grey, peacock green, aubergine, midnight blue, bronze. The Australian pearl, or South Sea pearl, is produced by Pinctada maxima and gives light tones: white, silver, champagne and gold. Australian pearls generally reach larger diameters. Neither is dyed: in both cases the colour is natural.

All our jewellery is handmade in our workshop in the south of France, near Cannes, either as one-of-a-kind pieces or in small batches. The leather is braided or rolled by hand and paired, depending on the design, with 925 sterling silver, 18-carat gold plating or semi-precious stones.

Yes. All our pearls come directly from pearl farms in French Polynesia and are 100% genuine. A certificate of authenticity is included with every piece.

A genuine Tahitian pearl has a deep lustre, with iridescent reflections that shift with the angle of the light, and natural shades that are never perfectly uniform. Its surface may show slight irregularities, a sign of a real cultured pearl rather than an imitation. To the touch it feels cool and very slightly grainy, unlike glass or plastic, which are perfectly smooth. The certificate of authenticity remains the simplest guarantee.

Wipe your pearls with a soft cloth after each wear. Avoid contact with perfumes, creams and chemicals. Store them separately in a soft pouch to prevent scratching.

We give the exact lengths in every product description. Some of our bracelets are adjustable and fit most wrists. Do get in touch if you would like personalised advice.

Yes, we make bespoke pieces. Contact us directly to discuss your project.

Yes, we ship worldwide. Delivery times and costs vary by destination. Orders shipped outside the EU may be subject to customs duties, payable by the buyer.

Within France and Europe: 3 to 7 working days. International: 7 to 15 working days depending on the destination.

Yes, you have 14 days from receipt to return an unworn item in its original packaging. Personalised pieces are not eligible for return.